WHO UNVEILS GLOBAL GUIDELINES TO MANAGE DIABETES DURING PREGNANCY

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first global guidelines for the management of diabetes during pregnancy, marking an important milestone for maternal and child health.

Diabetes affects about one in six pregnancies worldwide, placing roughly 21 million women at risk each year. The new guidelines provide a roadmap to prevent serious complications from diabetes for both women and their children.

According to WHO, diabetes in pregnancy, if not effectively managed, significantly increases the risk of life-threatening conditions such as pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, and birth injuries.

“It also has long-term consequences, elevating the lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiometabolic diseases for both mother and child,” WHO stated.

“The burden is greatest in low- and middle-income countries, where access to specialized care may be limited, yet the need is most urgent,” the organization added.

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, said the guidelines offer preventive measures for women living with the condition.

“WHO has long had guidance on diabetes and guidance on pregnancy, but this is the first time we have issued a specific standard of care for managing diabetes during pregnancy. These guidelines are grounded in the realities of women’s lives and health needs, providing clear, evidence-based strategies to deliver high-quality care for every woman, everywhere,” he said.

The guidelines include 27 key recommendations, covering individualized care such as advice on diet, physical activity, and blood sugar targets. Women with diabetes are encouraged to monitor their blood glucose regularly, both during clinic visits and at home.

Personalized treatments, including specific medication regimens for type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, as well as multidisciplinary support for women with pre-existing diabetes, are also highlighted.

“The release of these guidelines marks a pivotal step in strengthening maternal health and combating noncommunicable diseases. They underscore the importance of integrating diabetes care into routine antenatal services and ensuring equitable access to essential medicines and technologies,” WHO added.

Experts explained that gestational diabetes—diabetes diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy—can lead to serious health problems, including complications during pregnancy and delivery, as well as increased future risk for diabetes in both mother and child.

Prof. Anthonia Ogbera of the College of Medicine, Lagos State University, emphasized the necessity of screening every pregnant woman for diabetes during their first antenatal visit, noting that early detection is crucial. She also warned that undetected gestational diabetes could result in complications such as stroke or kidney problems for the mother.